Eagan bows out of race to lead Democrats as Langworthy is re-elected as county GOP chief

As the Erie County Republican Party re-elected its leader Saturday, one of the four contenders to head the county's Democrats pulled out of the race.

James J. Eagan of Orchard Park decided to end his candidacy for the Democratic chairmanship, outgoing Chairman Leonard R. Lenihan confirmed.

Eagan could not be reached to comment Saturday, but a statement reported by local television stations quoted him as saying, "I am deeply committed to other community activities and have decided to concentrate my efforts on the betterment of our region in my capacities as a board member of the Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority and the SPCA Serving Erie County, as well as other community endeavors."